Question

Who were professionals in cricket ? why were they called so ?

Answer 1

They were the amateurs who did not play for money or financial help but simply for pleasure and did most of the batting

Answer 2

Those who played to earn a living were called the professionals. They had to content being called players whereas the amateurs were called gentlemen. They were called so because they were selected on merit basis and were good in playing cricket unlike the amateurs. Hope this helps..